Discover Itria Valley

Valle d’Itria isn’t just visited: it’s crossed slowly.

Among stone villages, century-old olive groves and side roads, every stop tells a different side of Puglia.

Located in the heart of the Valle d’Itria, Putignano is a strategic base for exploring Alberobello, Polignano a Mare, Monopoli, Ostuni, Matera and the Castellana Caves — all within a short drive.
Unlike the more tourist-heavy destinations nearby, Putignano retains an authentic atmosphere, a slower pace and a strong local identity: the ideal base for experiencing Puglia away from the well-worn routes.

Alberobello

Why visit: A UNESCO World Heritage Site and a symbol of Puglia worldwide, Alberobello is famous for its trulli, dry-stone dwellings that make the landscape unique and unmistakable.

Distance from Putignano: 15 minutes by car (about 14 km)

Not to miss: Rione Monti, Aia Piccola, Trullo Sovrano, artisan workshops and scenic views

Where to eat: Terra Madre · Il Pinnacolo · EVO · Trullo d'Oro · La Cantina

Castellana Grotte

Why visit: An essential stop for lovers of nature and underground landscapes. The Castellana Caves are one of the most spectacular karst cave systems in Europe.

Distance from Putignano: 10 minutes by car (about 6 km)

Not to miss: Grotte di Castellana, Grotta Bianca, historic centre, Festa delle Fanove (december)

Where to eat: Osteria del Caroseno

Polignano a Mare

Why visit: Amid cliffs plunging into the sea, whitewashed lanes and panoramic terraces, Polignano is one of Puglia's most iconic coastal towns.

Distance from Putignano: 35 minutes by car (about 23 km)

Not to miss: Lama Monachile, historic centre, seafront terraces, statue of Domenico Modugno

Where to eat: Antiche Mura · Grecalis · Osteria di Chichibio · Tuccino · Villa degli Aranci · Leo's Braci d'Autore

Monopoli

Why visit: An authentic seaside town, with a charming old harbour, easily accessible beaches and a historic centre that's lively all year round. .

Distance from Putignano: 35 minutes by car (about 23 km)

Not to miss: Old Harbour, Cala Porta Vecchia, Porto Ghiacciolo, Cathedral of Santa Maria della Madia, historic centre

Where to eat: Il Guazzetto · La Locanda sul Porto · Vini e Panini · Lido Bianco · Elia · L'Ancora · Antica Posta · Trattoria San Domenico

Locorotondo

Why visit: Considered one of Italy's most beautiful villages, it captivates with its white houses, well-kept lanes and views over Valle d'Itria.

Distance from Putignano: 30 minutes by car (about 23 km)

Not to miss: circular historic centre, viewpoint over Valle d'Itria, white DOC wine tastings, Locus Festival, Viva Festival

Where to eat: Il Rosone

Martina Franca

Why visit: Elegant and refined, Martina Franca is the baroque heart of Valle d'Itria and one of the area's main cultural destinations.

Distance from Putignano: 40 minutes by car (about 30 km)

Not to miss: Basilica of San Martino, Ducal Palace, baroque historic centre, Valle d'Itria Festival

Where to eat: I Templari

Cisternino

Why visit: An authentic village where culinary tradition meets the relaxed atmosphere of Valle d'Itria's squares and lanes.

Distance from Putignano: 40 minutes by car (about 33 km)

Not to miss: historic centre, Piazza Vittorio Emanuele, butcher-grill houses, sunsets over the valley

Where to eat: Braceria Soleti Carne · Chirico Bistrot

Ostuni

Why visit: Known as the White City, it offers spectacular views over the Adriatic Sea and one of the most charming historic centres in the region.

Distance from Putignano: 55 minutes by car (about 54 km)

Not to miss: historic centre, Ostuni Cathedral, scenic viewpoints, Torre Pozzella, Rosa Marina

Where to eat: Terra Nostra · Osteria del Tempo Perso

Savelletri e Fasano

Why visit: Perfect for combining sea, archaeology, nature and food all in a single day.

Distance from Putignano: 35 minutes by car (about 28 km)

Not to miss: Savelletri harbour, Egnazia Archaeological Park, ZooSafari, Selva di Fasano, seafront and beaches

Where to eat: Gaudium · Osteria del Porto · Sapore di Sale · Masseria Salamina · Masseria Parco di Castro

Photo: Mauro De Luca